Selangor Customs uncovers false declarations and detains 14 containers in crackdown on import violations
In one of the largest recent enforcement actions, the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM) has seized 272.6 tonnes of smuggled scrap metal worth RM1.64 million at Port Klang. The raid was part of a broader crackdown on illegal imports disguised under false declarations.
RM1.64 Million Worth of Scrap Metal Seized
Customs enforcement at the West Port Free Zone intercepted 14 shipping containers in April containing 272.6 tonnes of undeclared scrap iron. The cargo—declared as copper alloy, alternators, and aluminium flakes—was illegally imported from the Americas, Europe, and Asia, said Assistant Director-General Raizam Setapa @ Mustapha at a press briefing on May 26.
The goods, intended for recycling, were found to lack the required Import Permit from SIRIM, making them prohibited under Item 5, Part 1, Fourth Schedule of the Customs (Prohibition of Imports) Order 2023.
False Declarations to Mislead Authorities
Authorities flagged the shipments for content verification, initially suspecting potential e-waste. However, further analysis confirmed they were scrap iron—a regulated commodity requiring formal documentation.
“The importers attempted to mislead authorities with false declarations,” Raizam stated, adding that multiple companies were involved, all of whom failed to meet import compliance standards.
RM978,319 in Illicit Beer Seized
In a separate case, 51,138 tins of illicit beer worth RM978,319 were seized on May 6 at North Port. The shipment—declared as chairs—originated from a neighbouring country and was destined for the black market, Raizam said.
“This is part of a growing trend where everyday goods are used as a cover to smuggle high-value contraband,” she added.
More Illegal Imports: Appliances, Tobacco, Rice
Customs officers also foiled three other smuggling attempts in April involving:
Rice worth RM304,640,
Chewing tobacco valued at RM65,785,
Washing machines and dryers worth RM521,400.
These goods were declared falsely as foodstuffs, pan masala, and women’s sandals to bypass customs inspections.
Legal Consequences Under Customs Act
All five cases are being investigated under Section 135(1)(a) and Section 133(1)(a) of the Customs Act 1967 for importing prohibited goods and making false declarations.
Convictions carry serious penalties, including fines between 10 to 20 times the value of the goods, or between RM100,000 and RM500,000, or imprisonment for six months to five years, or both.
Authorities urge the public to report smuggling activities by contacting the Customs Department Hotline at 1800-88-8855. Identities of informants will be kept strictly confidential.
These back-to-back smuggling busts at Port Klang reflect the increasing sophistication of contraband operations and highlight the critical role of Customs enforcement in safeguarding Malaysia’s economy and regulatory integrity. With stricter inspections and public cooperation, authorities aim to dismantle these illegal supply chains and protect legitimate trade routes.
Sources: New Straits Times (2025) , Malay Mail (2025)
Keywords: Scrap Metal Seized, Port Klang Customs, RM1.64 Million Smuggling, False Declarations Malaysia, Selangor Customs Raids
